Last night, a health and well-being turning point for a family member was shared. The change is small in action, but big in meaning. It was one more reminder that a family member's health condition is not getting better, but instead represents the gradual decline that has been in place for many years now. When this condition first started it was marked by periods of excrutiating pain and compromise. I always felt bad when I saw my family member in pain--I wished I had the solution, and as a family we tried to help out and find some resolve for the pain that existed. There were periods of relief and some good action, and there were periods of failure and greater struggle too. Lately, there's been less grave pain, but also less strength and well-being too. Living with a decline like this is a day-by-day affair, one where you don't think a lot about the journey, but instead think about what you can do to make each day meaningful, positive, and helpful.
At this turning point with my loved one, it is time to recommit to the well-being of all involved and the commitment to contributing to as much camaraderie as possible. What can I do to be a positive member of the care giving team? How can I help? These are questions I'll be thinking about today as I focus on this situation.
In our health and well-being journeys, there will be many turning points. At these turning points, we have to rethink what we are doing, why and how. During these times of assessment, it is good to acknowledge what is working and what is not working. It's also good to rethink the health and well-being environment--what can you do to make the environment more conducive to good health and well-being?
Turning points are opportunities to renew your commitment to meaningful pursuits, a good time to make better. Onward.